Pre-Match: Interview: Keith Hill On Shrewsbury Town Test

Manager Keith Hill reflects on the week and looks ahead to Dale’s League One fixture v Shrewsbury Town at the Montgomery Waters Meadow…

“We’ve done some good work [on the training pitch this week]. Three games in a week took its toll towards the end of the game against Scunthorpe last weekend," said Hill.

“I think the lads, on the whole, over the three games we’ve played have looked more than ok. We haven’t looked outstanding or where I expect us to be, but since we’ve been in League One, we’ve been growers – we’ve grown into the season.

“There are a few things missing at this moment in time but we’re working on it in training and the lads have got to put that right.

“In my opinion, we’re prepared for a marathon. I don’t think any league has been won yet or any relegation has been decided.”

Dale face a Shrews side who have had an unbeaten start to their 2017/18 league campaign, securing maximum points from their opening two fixtures, after beating Northampton Town and AFC Wimbledon.

Commenting on the game, Hill said: “It was difficult when we went there last season.

“Paul Hurst is a very good manager. I’ve been very impressed with how they play – I think the players are 100-percent all-inclusive in his song and in the way that he wants to play the game.

“They look a very good outfit and they’ve got good players. They’ve got a great balance with respect to youth and experience, and players that the manager trusts and are willing to work for him. They believe in the manager’s methods and that’s really important.”